Advent helps us see that we can approach God without fear
Advent Reading Week 2: Get brave like Esther
Having risked her life to approach King Xerxes, Esther’s story highlights what’s at stake when one approaches a king. Fearlessness required.
This reading is featured in Andrew’s new book Gather for Advent, designed to help your family nurture wonder as reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
Go to the source itself: Esther 5:1-14; Hebrews 4:14-16
Reading time: 1-2 mins
How to use:
Read on your own for quiet reflection
Gather your family or friends at the table or in the living room. Have a candle ready to light. Reflect on the story and scripture together.
Reading
Esther: A lot of meaning can transpire in a few short moments. A lot can be said with a single gesture: a step into the throne room; a pointing of the sceptre.
Xerxes, the king who became my husband, the king who I approached to save the Jews from imminent doom, was unapproachable.
His position as king was untouchable. To enter his court and approach the throne without invitation was a life and death decision.
When I went into the throne room to plead for my people, I could have lost my life. In a single moment my fate was decided.
Live or die.
Exclusion or embrace. I would please the king or annoy him.
It was a loaded moment.
You know the rest of the story. My people were saved. I was vindicated. The positive outcome proved that the wager I made to approach him was well worth the risk.
There is another King.
Far greater than Xerxes, who we can approach without fear.
Before I approached Xerxes, I had to fast for days to prepare my heart. And I was his chosen wife! And he was only a man.
How much more serious is it to approach the Creator of the universe? That we can do so without fear is the most astonishing thing. And Jesus made the way.
That’s what I marvel at this Christmas.
Jesus was born into the world as a baby, born into this world to save us all so he could show us the face of God.
The King of Kings came to us! How shocking!
Advent means that we can approach the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, go to his throne of grace, with confidence that he will show kindness to us.
At any moment on any day with any need.
Today I light the candle of Joy. It is a joy to approach God with boldness. Let’s do so this Advent season and every season.
Amen.
Give the gift of great Christmas content.
Stuff a stocking with some hope this Christmas with Gather for Advent, Andrew’s new book of poems and stories designed for busy families. Bless someone you love with the book.